Irregular or Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding (IMB)

Abnormal or irregular Uterine Bleeding is also classified as intermenstrual bleeding (IMB). IMP is when bleeding occurs between monthly periods, and can be both prolonged bleeding or also an extremely heavy period. The most common causes are:

• Fibroids.
• Polyps.
• Infection.
• A displaced coil.
• In rare cases – endometrial or cervical cancer.

I will assess you in clinic, having taken a detailed history and carried out a vaginal examination, and performed a vaginal ultrasound scan to assess the uterus and the endometrial anatomy, (the presence of polyps and fibroids. submucous fibroids and polyps are common causes of IMB).

I may need to perform an endometrial biopsy or perform a hysteroscopy or MyoSure procedure to biopsy and treat polyps and small submucous fibroids. In a woman in her late 40’s, a biopsy is sometimes necessary to exclude endometrial or uterine cancer.

The most common cause are submucous fibroids, polyps and displaced coils. These can be successfully treated by MyoSure treatments.

• Commonly caused by polyps and submucous fibroids.
• Can be caused by displaced coils which have become imbedded in the uterus.
• Rarely caused by cancers.
• Can be caused by infection and retained products of conception.